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FILE PHOTO PROVIDEDNearby Boca Grande was voted the No. 2 spot in Florida for the title of the World Fishing Network's contest, "Ultimate Fishing Town US," in 2011. Without vital tarpon nurseries like those around Lemon Creek, these prized mature tarpon would not make it to open waters.

WaterLine photo by "Gator" Dave HarperA hooked tarpon tailwalks as it tries to shake the hook.

Photo providedThis tarpon was foul-hooked by a jig fisherman.

By Capt. Van Hubbard

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I’m hearing constant complaints about boats in Boca Grande Pass — especially fishermen using jigs. I’m not there much, so I’m not sure what jig they are using, but I haven’t seen the Florida Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement out there yet. Why don’t we have a law enforcement effort in Boca Grande Pass now to check and enforce violations? After all, the Pass Jig is supposed to be illegal. What’s the reason or justification for ignoring this issue after the law passed unanimously last year? I’m disappointed so far we have no effort to protect our tarpon fishery in the Pass!

I’m anxious to hear the new rules for tournaments in the Pass. And what are their new rules to deal with this law? It always confused me that a 20-foot leader was allowed, yet participants only use eighteen inches? Could it be because the knot must be that close as they reel rapidly up to snag their target? If the knot was up higher, maybe the hit would spook their quarry as it clipped the fish sliding against skin? I guess I’m just curious to see the new rules for tournaments in the Pass, and how the FWC is going to enforce them.

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